World Cup 2026: South Africa’s Teboho Mokoena dedicates goal to late grandfather after Czech Republic draw

South Africa international Teboho Mokoena delivered one of the most emotional moments of 2026 FIFA World Cup so far after revealing the deeply personal inspiration behind his equalising goal for South Africa in their 1-1 draw with Czech Republic.

The midfielder was visibly overcome with emotion even before kick-off, breaking down during the national anthem as he represented his country on football’s biggest stage. That emotion carried through into the match, where he stepped up in the second half to convert a decisive penalty and secure Bafana Bafana’s first point of the tournament.

Speaking after the game, Mokoena opened up on the personal meaning behind his performance, revealing that thoughts of his late grandfather played a major role in his emotional response.

“When I was overwhelmed, I was thinking of my late grandfather,” he said. “I know wherever he is, he’ll be proud of me.”

The South African midfielder explained that the moment felt almost surreal, as he believed he was being guided by the memory of a man who had always supported his dream, even when others doubted him.

“I just felt his presence at that moment,” Mokoena added. “I knew if he was here, he would be proud of me because I know he believed in me when nobody believed in me.”

Mokoena also dedicated the moment to his family, highlighting the importance of his mother and son in his journey to the World Cup stage. He described the occasion as overwhelming, not just because of the result, but because of what it represented in his personal story.

“I thought of my mom, my son – the people who believe in me,” he said. “We are playing at the World Cup, it’s sold out, South Africa against Czech Republic. I was so emotional thinking about it.”

The midfielder admitted that growing up in Bethlehem, he never imagined he would one day be scoring at a World Cup, calling the experience the fulfilment of a lifelong dream.

“As a kid, I never thought I would be here,” he said. “Scoring that goal was a cherry on top. It’s a dream come true.”

Mokoena’s strike not only secured a vital point for South Africa but also reinforced his growing importance within the squad, as Hugo Broos’ side continue their push for progression from a tightly contested group.

For the midfielder, however, the night will be remembered less for statistics and more for emotion, family, and fulfilment on the grandest stage of world football.

“I’m living my dream as a kid from Bethlehem,” he concluded. “I know everyone back home is happy.”